sign in sign up
<<
Home , Bible Society of India

SOWING CIRCLE A PUBLICATION OF THE SOCIETY OF Volume 36 Number 2 (Jul - Dec 2020)

Isaiah 9:6 Registered O ce: “LOGOS”, # 206, M.G. Road -560 001 INDIA Phone: +91-80-41124714, 80-42214715 Fax: +91-80-25584701 Email: [email protected] Web: www.bsind.org

William Carey Centre: # 16, Hall Road, Richards Town, Bangalore-560 005 Phone: +91-80-25474918, 25494790 Fax: +91-80-25494788

e Executive Committee Members of e of India:-

President e Most Rev. Dr. P. C. Singh

Vice-President Dr. (Mrs) P. Leela Bose

Treasurer Rev. Premkumar Soans

General Secretary Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko

Members Rev. Dr. H. Vanlalauva Rev. J. Sundara Raj Rev. Dr. P. N. S. Chandra Bose Rev. Hotokhu Zhimomi Mr. Vatsal Jamindar Mr. Suresh Carol Jacob Rev. M. Prabhuraj e Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar oma Metropolitan Mr. Biswarup Mandal Mrs. Renuka Tudu Bishop. Subodh C. Mondal Rev. Dr. Bijaya Kumar Pattnaik e Rt. Rev. Basil Balea Baskey Mrs. Bakordor W. Bannett Rev. T. Devaputhiran Rev. Dr. Sanjay A. Paul

2 | Sowing Circle | Jan - Mar 2020 In partnership with the Central Methodist Church in India, we were able to provide dry ration to the daily labour worker who lost her job due to Pandemic Contents Message from the General Secretary - 5 Exclusive -20 Editorial - 9 --Annual Planning Workshop - 2020 Contact Information - 10 International - 26 Cover Story - 11 - BSI In-house virtual Meeting News & Events - 28 Focus - 14 Obituary - 51 -Scripture Engagement with Social Transformation -Presenting Bible -Bible Night -Mary Jones’ Kitchen Garden Tribute - 18 -Dr Joseph Mar oma Metropolitan Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 3 Ms. LahunNongsiej feeling e Word of God in Braille

4 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 What a privilege it is for all of us to celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. One of the famous Christmas carols which has become world known and sung during Christmas is the carol “What Child is is?” ere is a beautiful and inspiring story behind this carol to recollect during this season of Christmas. William Chatterton Dix (1837-1898) was born in Bristol, England. His father, a surgeon, had written a biography of the poet, omas Chatterton, which accounts for the middle name that he gave his son. It also reveals the aection for poetry, which the father passed on to his son. As a young man, William moved to Glasgow, Scotland, where he pursued a career managing a marine insurance company (a company that insured ships and related interests). However, his true passion was poetry. | Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 5 Dix fell seriously ill, and was conned to his bed for an extended period. He underwent a true spiritual crisis during this illness, and spent much time in prayer and the reading of Christian literature. He came through the crisis as a true man of faith, and devoted much of his later poetry to Christian themes. He wrote a number of hymns, at least three of which have survived to this day, the other two being As with Gladness, Men of Old and Alleluia! Sing to Jesus.

What Child Is is? was derived from a longer poem, e Manger Song. It was rst published in 1865 in Britain, and quickly became popular in the United States as well. e song begins in the manger with the child sleeping on Mary’s lap, accompanied by angels and shepherds. But the second verse asks why he would be lying in such e third verse moves to a joyful tone, mean estate. It goes on to speak of Jesus’ asking us to bring Jesus incense and gold purpose to plead for the salvation of sinners and myrrh. e reason is simple. e King and alludes to the nails and the cross that he of kings has come to bring us salvation, so will face as a man. we should respond joyfully in his honor. Greensleeves, the tune associated with this carol, is a traditional English tune that preceded What Child Is is? by at least a century probably more. It began as a love song, and may have been used with popular drinking songs. Today we hear it sung both as a love song and as a sacred song.

“Greensleeves” was written in a minor key, which gives it a sad feel in the rst two lines. However, while the key remains minor, the last two lines take on an enthusiastic, joyful character that contrasts nicely with the earlier lines.

Dix died in Cheddar, Somerset, England in 1898 and was buried in the church cemetery there. What Child is this? e question, using Critical eological Imagination, one of the principles of Biblical Interpretation I use in my study of the Bible can be viewed dierently with dierent but unique connotations.

6 | Sowing Circle | Jan - Mar 2020 First, the question could be viewed merely him with anthems sweet. at is the kind as a question of rhetoric. What child is this? of arrival we expected. Heavenly hosts sing. Really? It is Jesus, of course. We all know e heavens are alight with song. But even that even the kids know that. What one does here there is a glimpse of the unexpected. not understand is that questions are not just e angels sing to shepherds. at is odd. for solving problems and requesting new Angels, yes but shepherds? Shouldn’t there information. Sometimes questions make a be dignitaries, especially from among the point. We call those “rhetorical questions.” regal and religious establishment of the Other times the form of a question expresses Jews, who have purportedly long awaited awe and wonder about something we know the coming of their Christ? Shouldn’t to be true, but nd almost too good to be shepherds take a number behind the king true. It’s too good to simply say it directly and his court, the priests and the scribes, like we say everything else. and the Jerusalem elite?

When the disciples found themselves in e unexpected is there in the rst stanza, a great windstorm, with waves breaking but it is the second where things get into the boat, and Jesus calmed the storm, especially peculiar. Why does the newborn they said to one another, “Who then is lie “in such mean estate” in the very place this, that even the wind and the sea obey where “ox and ass are feeding”? Why a him?” (Mark 4:41). ey knew the answer stable? Why this place of poverty? Why not from Scripture. Only God himself can still a palace, but the lowest of all structures? the seas (Psalm 65:7; 89:9; 107:29); this, somehow, must be God. But it was too ird, the question beckons us beyond wonderful just to say. is new revelation lowly Bethlehem to a life of even greater of Jesus’ glory was too stupendous to keep lowliness. And not static lowliness, but quiet, and too remarkable not to say it in increasing lowliness. Here at Christmas we some fresh way. God himself had become celebrate that Jesus, “though he was in the man and was in the boat with them. Who form of God, did not count equality with then is this? God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, by taking the form of a servant, It is in a similar vein that we say at Christmas, being born in the likeness of men . . .” “What child is this?” We know the answer. (Philippians 2:6–7). But why? Why this It has been plainly revealed. And it is almost surprising appearance among us? To simply too wonderful to be true. God himself show us it can be done? Surely this is more has become human in this baby, and has than a stunt. Why has he come? What is he come to rescue us. e eternal Word has here to accomplish? become esh and dwells among us (John 1:14). It is clear and certain. We must say Christmas commemorates more than his it straightforwardly and with courage. And birth. It also presses us forward in his story, it is tting that at times, like Christmas, beyond the lowliness of the manger to a life we wonder, we marvel, we declare in awe, of lowly sacrice with no place to lay his “What child is this?” head (Luke 9:58) and nally to the ultimate lowliness, an odious public execution, Second, what prompts this question of awe, condemned unjustly as a criminal: “. . . and is not only that God has become human, being found in human form, he humbled but that he has come among us in this way himself by becoming obedient to the point in this surprising poverty. e rst stanza of death, even death on a cross” gives us the glory we expect: Angels greet (Philippians 2:8). Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 7 Some may suspect we are souring the Of the increase of his government and of brightness and joy of Christmas when we peace there will be no end, on the throne sing, “Nails, spears shall pierce him through of David and over his kingdom, to establish . . .” Can’t we leave that for Good Friday? it and uphold it with justice and with But the Word-made-esh, coming without righteousness from this time forever and a cross in view, is no good news. e light forevermore…. Born in Jerusalem, Israel, and joy of Christmas are hollow at best, and he was said to have found his calling as a even horrifying, if we sever the link between prophet when he saw a vision in the year of Bethlehem and Golgotha. “. . . e cross he King Uzziah’s death. Isaiah prophesized the bore for me, for you.” is time, he comes coming of the Messiah Jesus Christ. He was not in judgment, but mercy. believed to have written chapters 1-39 in e Book of Isaiah with the balance of the He did this for us. Christmas is for us only book authored by several other prophets. because his life is for us, and his death is for Chapter 9 contains a well-known prophecy us, and his triumphant resurrection on the about the coming of Jesus Christ. Verse 1 other side is for us. “Nails, spears shall pierce describes the northern part of the Northern him through” does not ruin Christmas. It Kingdom of Israel, which was the rst area gives the season its power. e Cradle and attacked when nations like Assyria came the Cross are interconnected. from the north. Isaiah prophesied that this area known as “the Galilee” would not Fourth, the question makes us to realize the always be so troubled. Isaiah promised that universality of the child. Lowly shepherds are God would send them light and joy through here. And when the loy of his own people the birth of a child who would break the will not bow the knee, foreign dignitaries “yoke of [their] burden” (Isaiah 9:4) and traverse far, over eld and fountain, moor be called “Wonderful, Counsellor, e and mountain, to honor him by laying mighty God, e everlasting Father, e down their treasures. Peasants come, and Prince of Peace” (v. 6). All of these names kings. e weak and the strong. e wise refer to the Messiah the King of Kings and and the foolish. e low and despised kneel this prophecy was most completely fullled side by side with those powerful and nobly when Jesus spent most of His mortal born. e manger is for all because the ministry in this Galilee area (Matthew cross is for all. And this is all too much for 4:12–16). e prophecy continues to be simple fact-nding, cool-headed analysis, fullled as the government, or rule, of Jesus and calculated articulations. is is the stu Christ continues to eternally expand when of singing. is is the time to say, to declare individuals accept Him as their king and in the awe and wonder of worship, What become eligible for the blessings of eternal child is this? life (Isaiah 9:7). is is indeed the answer to the question “What Child is is? Conclusion: Isaiah, the Hebrew prophet who was believed to have lived about Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko 700 years before the birth of Jesus Christ General Secretary had answered this question” What Child is is?” in Isaiah (9:6-7) when he prophesied: For unto us a child is born, a son is given; and the government shall be upon his shoulder; and his name shall be called Wonderful Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace. 8 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 Ever since the Covid19 pandemic invasion in early 2020, nations around the world have struggled to contain the virus. Some have arrested its spread others have not been very successful in their endeavours. Like any other institution, the Editors’ Bible Society of India has also experienced the negative impact of this pandemic at alarming levels. However, the BSI is trying its best to make the Word of God relevant for the victims of this disaster through Scriptural Engagement with a message of Hope and Love to people who are adversely aected physically, Note spiritually and emotionally across our nation. We remember and pray for our BSI friends, well-wishers, partners, donors - individuals, churches and organizations. We acknowledge with pain, the loss of many precious lives across the world, including the ardent supporters and volunteers of the BSI Ministry. We continue to pray for the cessation of this pandemic in our regular devotions, and for the Editorial Board holistic healing of those who are hospitalized and home quarantined owing to Covid 19. We also record with sorrow the loss of our dear colleagues during these General Secretary: dark days where the Christian conventional burial systems could not be adhered Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko to. Amidst this challenging time, we do not lose faith. Our conscience prompts us to remain calm as God says in Psalm 46:10 “Be still and know that I am God…” Editor: is call to “be still” is a strong Hebrew verb Harpu, the imperative (command) form meaning “Be quiet” or “Hush” or “Shut up!” if we read it as “Hush” or “Shut Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi up” it holds much force, like when the leader of a group commands a gathering to maintain pin drop silence in a noisy environment. As Jesus “hushed” the stormy Members: gale to have complete stillness in the stormy seas (Luke 8:24). Imperative verb is Mr. Ashith Ezekiel a command with authority without option but to obey. Here in the biblical text, Mr. Paul Stephen this command is given by God in a context when our heart is restless because of Mr. Caleb Martin Hilton an uncontrolled situation created by a virus. But God is saying “stay quiet, do not Rev. Sudhakara Raju murmur, be not restless or do not be afraid, listen to my voice, I am your God Mrs. Gladys Loganathan who is right beside you, I control everything, your noise and anxious heart will not heal you or give you peace, but trust me, I am with you, so do not be afraid!” Just like any other year the Christmas season is approaching fast. Let us heed the Design: command of God to stay calm within our anxious hearts. Like Mary, the Mother Mr. Alphonse Albert Doss of Jesus, let us sing the song of Salvation and celebrate the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ with Hope and Trust that God is in control of every situation in our lives. Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi Director, Church Relations and Resource Mobilisation Department

Sowing Circle is an organ of the Bible Society of India. It is published for the friends and supporters of the BSI and only for private circulation. Opinions expressed in the articles do not necessarily carry the views of the BSI. General information on the work of the BSI published herein may be used without prior permission. However, articles which mention the author’s name may be used only with the prior permission in writing from the Editor. Acknowledgements and copies of the publications are appreciated. Jul - Dec| 2020 | Sowing Circle | 9 CONTACT INFORMATION GENERAL SECRETARY REV. DR. M. MANI CHACKO Ph.D (London) Telephone:080-4151 1810 Email: [email protected] SENIOR MANAGEMENT OF BSI Sr. Director Translations Director Finance Assistant Director, Information Technology REV. DR. JONADOB NATHANIEL D. eol (SEAGST) MR. TINKU GEORGE MR. DAVID V. MABEN Telephone: 080-2549 4802 Telephone: 080 - 2549 4815 Telephone: 080-2546 3708 Email: [email protected], Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] [email protected] Sr. Director Production Director Media and Special Audience Assistant Director, Human Resource MR. E. ASHITH MR. CALEB MARTIN HILTON and Administration Telephone: 080-2549 4791 Telephone: 080-2547 1226 MR. SOLOMON EZEKIEL Email: [email protected], Email: [email protected] Telephone: 080-4112 4714 [email protected] [email protected] Email: [email protected] Director Marketing Associate Director Translations Assistant Director, Translations MR. PAUL STEPHEN and Translations Consultant for REV. DR. N. SUBRAMANI Telephone: 080-4151 1811 North East India Telephone: 080-25806172 Email: [email protected], REV. DR. W. ALONG JAMIR Email: [email protected] [email protected] D.. (Serampore) Assistant Director, Production Director Property Management e Bible Society of India MR. GEORGE SAMUEL MR. B. JOHN STEPHEN Translations Centre, Telephone: 080-25474918 Telephone: 080-41124715 Arburthnot Road, Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] – 793 003 Telephone: 0364-2536939 Internal Audit Director Email: [email protected] Telephone: 080-2549 4792 Church Relations and Resource Mobilisation [email protected] Email: [email protected] DR. HRANGTHAN CHHUNGI Telephone: 080-4152 2118 Email: [email protected] [email protected] AUXILIARY SECRETARIES Rev. Remlalfaka Mr. Sajal Kumar Sarkar Mrs. Shashikala Alva B.S. Rev. Phidolis Dkhar Auxiliary Secretary, Sr. Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary, Sr. Auxiliary Secretary, Shillong Auxiliary, Auxiliary, Calcutta Auxiliary, No. 2, Mahatma Gandhi Road, Students’ Field, Synod Conference Centre, 23, Jawaharlal Nehru Road, Bangalore – 560 001 Shillong – 793 002 Mission Veng, Aizawl – 796 001 – 700 087 Telephone: 080-2221 4557 Telephone: 0364-2544051 Telephone: 0389-232 3210 Telephone: 033-2249 1898 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Mathew Skariah Rev. P. Moses Devadason Rev. Chittranjan Polson Rev. Dr. Yiepetso Wezah Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary, Sr. Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary, Auxiliary Secretary, Auxilairy Secretary, Bible Society Junction, PB No. 502, No. 65, Auxiliary, Auxiliary, PB No. 114, Evening Bazaar Road, 14, ornhill Road, NH-39, Near New Dhansiri Bridge, Kottayam – 686 001 Park Town, – 600 003 Allahabad – 211 001 P.B. 66, Dimapur – 797 112 Telephone: 0481-2562103 Telephone: 044-25353631 Telephone: 0532-2624107 Telephone: 03862-229087 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Rev. Gershombhai Khristi Rev. John Basy Paul Rev. John Vikram Rev. David H. Desai Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary, Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary Secretary, North West India Auxiliary, Plot No. 79 & 80, No. 6-2-228 & 229 Auxiliary, Auxiliary, 10, Sansad Marg, – 110 001 Opp: St. Philomena High School, Near My Home Gated Community, Near Gujarat College, Telephone: 011-23362054, 23366822 New Bhoiguda, – 500 003. Canal Centre, Chowdavaram, I.P. Mission Compound, Ellis Bridge, Email: [email protected] Telephone: 040-27534017, 27539042 Guntur – 522 019 – 380 006 Rev. Brajendra Kumar Kauri Email: [email protected] Telephone: 07702777858 Telephone: 079-26446807 Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary, Dn. Ranjit Paswan Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Bible House, Payton Sahi, – 753 001 Associate Auxiliary Secretary Telephone: 0671-2419691 Rev. Abhijeet Vishwas Sasane Rev. Daniel Nath Associate Auxiliary ANI Email: [email protected] Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary Secretary, No. 210, 2nd Floor, Suryarao Complex, Bombay Auxiliary, Auxiliary, Rev. Soma Bhatkar 109, M.G. Road, Middle Point (Goalgar) Malhotra House, Opp. GPO Fort, Mission Press Compound, Sr. Auxiliary Secretary, Auxiliary, P.O. Box 200, HPO, – 744 101 Bombay – 400 001 Napier Town, Old Hazaribagh Road, Ranchi – 834 001 Andaman & Nicobar Islands Telephone: 022-2261 1707 Jabalpur – 482 001 Mobile: +91 9507175450 Telephone: 03192-243372 Email: [email protected] Telephone: 0761-2622255 & 2628512 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] 10 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 COVER STORY

BSI IN-HOUSE VIRTUAL MEETING Church Relations and Resource Mobilisation

Church Relations and Resource e morning devotion on November 9th Mobilisation process is increasingly making was facilitated by Rev. Sudhakara Raju, an impact in all our Auxiliaries’ works Manager, CR & RMD. He spoke from through hundreds of Churches across 1 Kings 19 from the life of Elijah on the India. e In-house Virtual Meeting along theme “Brink of Burnout.” with the Auxiliary Secretaries and former Auxiliary Secretaries who had le great In his keynote address Rev. Dr. M. Mani legacies in the ministry of the BSI during Chacko, General Secretary, BSI spoke from their tenure was organised on November Mark 12:41-44 on “Widow’s Mite.” Dwelling 9th and 10th, 2020. is Virtual meeting on the theology of fundraising, the General was an attempt to explore ways and means Secretary had raised important theological of strengthening our relationship with discourse with a question asking “What the Churches and donors addressing the is the theology of Fundraising?”GS had challenges we face on various issues like mentioned four important observations, partnership between the BSI Auxiliaries such as:-1. Opportunity to participate in and Churches, strategy for mobilisation and God’s Mission – fundraising is not begging. sustainability of resources. It was the rst of It is an opportunity to participate in God’s its kind in the history of the Bible Society mission 2. Cheerful Giver - God loves a to invite the former auxiliary Secretaries to cheerful giver 3. Stewardship - is the core share their success stories in partnership component in fundraising. 4. Love (charity) with the churches, individuals and with the and justice – fundraising is the act of justice current Auxiliary Secretaries. while serving the poor and the needy.

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 11 General Secretary reiterated that Jesus was a classical example of fundraiser because He made people aware of stewardship of resources. It is a clarion call to be part of “Missio Dei” – the Mission of God. Moderating the sessions during the panel discussions Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi, Director, Church Relations and Resource Mobilisation introduced the former Auxiliary Secretaries to the younger and newly appointed Auxiliary Secretaries that Rev. Dr. Nicholas G. Parmar, Former Senior the duties and responsibilities they had Auxiliary Secretary, BSI Gujarat Auxiliary carried out by our panelists during their (1977 – 2013, total 37 years service in BSI) tenure in the BSI were rich resources which we cannot learn from books, but to hear it from their own sharing is such a blessing. To imitate and to follow in their footsteps is our joy as we strive to do our best for the service of the BSI and for the glory of God. On the second day we had Rev. Dr. Nicholas G. Parmar, Former Senior Auxiliary Secretary, BSI Gujarat Auxiliary to lead us with short meditation. He was dwelling on three events of lockdown in the that changed the entire course of life: e fall, ood and the tower of Babel. While making a comparative study with Rev. N. H. Jayawanth, Former Auxiliary our present days of lockdown, he further Secretary, BSI Karnataka Auxiliary (1995 – stated that God is with the ones who 1999, total 4 years service in BSI) believe in God’s presence in their lives. He once again reiterated that the Bible Society is the handmaiden of the Church, the torch bearer and the load bearer, and God’s abiding presence will continue to lead, as it was in the past. e following BSI In-House Auxiliary Secretaries, our panellists for the two days programmes were:-

Rev. Dr. Vincent Vincent Vinod Kumar, Former Auxiliary Secretary, BSI Karnataka Auxiliary (1999 – 2004, total 6 years service in BSI) 12 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 e panelists shared their rich experiences and their success stories during their tenure in the Bible Society. We had a fruitful time of interaction and great learning with Elder angnghilhlova, Former Senior the Auxiliary Secretaries. Auxiliary Secretary, BSI Aizawl Auxiliary (2006 – 2020, total 34 years service in BSI) rough the sharing of their journeys it is clear that the successful ministry of the BSI basically lies in its tenets as the “Handmaiden of the Church”. e BSI not being a separate entity away from the Church, but its deep intertwining root of the Mission of the Church Msgr. S. Jayanathan, Vicar General, Archdiocese of Bangalore served as special which is missionary oriented Resource Person to make the Bible available for every person with the

e major topics dealt during our virtual language closest to the heart meet were - for transformational mission “Building Inter-personal relationship with Auxiliary Community and Churches” orientation. “Communication Skills in Relationship Building with Donors – Individuals and Church” We thank God for the blessings we receive through the ministry of the BSI. We record “Fundraising and Volunteers Management” our heartfelt gratitude to our General Secretary, Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko for his wisdom and guidance, and actively involving with all our discussions whole heartedly throughout the meeting.

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 13 FOCUS

Scripture Engagement for Social Transformation e Bible Society of India in Partnership with Communion of Anawim Christian Communities A Course on Leadership for Social Transformation (A journey of discernment) is programme is oered by the Communion of Anawim Christian Communities (CACC) in Collaboration with Visthar Academy of Justice and Peace. It is a great privilege for the BSI as we partner with them through one of the BSI mandates of ‘Scripture Engagement’. e Communion of Anawim Christian Communities (CACC) is a religious body that serves as a national platform for Anawim Churches, Christian Organisations and individuals committed to Christian worship and social transformation. e concept of Anawim is derived from the biblical term (noun masculine plural meaning poor, aicted due to oppression by the rich and the powerful in the society; humble and meek having no hope except in the Lord). e CACC is a non-denominational and Christian institution. e mandate for the CACC is derived from the member Churches and organisations. e Visthar Academy of Justice and Peace is a member of the CACC. Visthar will partner CACC in facilitating the journey of discernment titled Leadership for Social Transformation (LST). e Visthar Academy serves faith based organisations and Civil Society institutions; by way of educational programmes and capacity building. e Academy is situated in an eco-sanctuary in Bangalore (www.visthar.org). Young men and women, between the age of 20 and 25 years, recommended by a member institution of CACC, with a minimum academic qualification of an 14 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 Mrs. Shashikala Alva, B.S., Auxiliary Secretary BSI Karnataka Auxiliary presenting a Bible to Mr. K. Murali, Congress President, Shivajinagar & Vasanthnagar, Bangalore on Independence Day intermediate (Pre University) pass, in any Celebration discipline and a working knowledge of English, attend this programme. e objective of this programme is to enable youth from Anawim Christian Communities to: discern the movement of the spirit of God, explore a vocation as faith inspired change agents and develop perspectives and skills for social engagement. is Programme is an intensive one. Carefully designed as an intermodular with two theoretical intensive periods and eld work based on a clearly designed social research and Project. e Bible Society of India was happy to participate in the Inaugural Function. e event was solemnly conducted at the Visthar Centre in Bangalore. Many from Bangalore and Andhra Pradesh who are genuinely concerned for the poor were present at the meeting. Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 15 AIZAWL AUXILIARY

Bible Night; Two wonderful Bible Nights were organised by the Aizawl Auxiliary to reach out to the community on October 18 & 25, 2020. “Since it can no longer do business as usual due to the pandemic, the Aizawl Auxiliary held Bible Society campaigns through social media via Television & YouTube Premiere. Very powerful messages were proclaimed on these two nights on the ministry of the BSI by the Auxiliary Secretary Rev. Remlalfaka and the Secretary, CRRMD Sub- Committee of the Aizawl Auxiliary Elder Denghmingthanga. is event ‘BIBLE NIGHT’ was organized and broadcast on the prime channels of two leading Television operators in and was also premiered on YouTube as well. Besides this, broadcasting of the sermons of the twelve BSI Auxiliary Resource Persons on dierent TV channels and the Auxiliary YouTube channel is an on going programme every night.

16 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 Mary Jones Kitchen Garden and Orchard (An initiative of e Bible Society of India – Allahabad Auxiliary) Since last 4 years it had been the prayer to see that the land God provided to Allahabad Auxiliary may not be le unused. e ‘Talent’ God gave 100 years back may be used for God’s glory. Seeing the passion and commitment, God in His own time answered our prayers. e story of Mary Jones has been a great inspiration, she also did some farming to save money to buy a Bible. Convinced with the past learning experience, especially of ECC, Bangalore , it should not just be history but also an ongoing asset and tool. e World Environment Day may not just be a day’s observation but be the spark to kindle the re. Eorts were made to educate the sta about the current challenging scenario and in these dicult times how we can try to be indispensable. It is our desire to be productive when there is not much of regular work and to have something for ourselves on our dinning tables in this dicult times due to Covid-19 pandemic. e story of Joseph in Egypt was also motivational, in order to help the Auxiliary to be sustainable to some extent, to deepen the relationship with the well wishers and to raise donations through the organic produce. e project was initiated with much prayers, well wishes and sincere intentions of heart. e sta not only took interest with much zest & solidarity, but also contributed to the cause in cash and kind. Miraculously, we saw God’s blessings in each step by sending timely rains! showers of blessings! It has been an “experience of extraordinaire” in the farmers’ life, depending on nature and on God, and how God alone gives life in a “seed” until its fruition! We rejoice as we harvest of the First Fruit of the labor and God’s blessings. On 10th July, 2020, we sang praises to God in the Garden and Raju Maurya, our gardener, probably for the rst time in his life publicly oered a prayer of thanksgiving in Jesus’ name! We are Praying and looking forward to a great harvest of vegetables like Spinach, Red Amarnath, Cowpea Beans, Ridge Gourd, Okra, Chilli, Egg Plant and Moong & Urad Lintels. We also planted some saplings of Guava, Pomegranate and lemon a couple of years back, keeping a vision of an orchard. ose plants have also yielded fruit and we have planted more saplings of various kinds.We received a great harvest and distributed the vegetables to our Christian friends in over 400 homes and in return we received many blessings, well wishes, greater relationships and even some donations!! Remembering that it is the Lord God who gives ability to produce (Deut. 8:18). Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 17

TRIBUTE

Dr Joseph Mar oma Metropolitan- A champion of the Bible Cause e Bible Society of India has lost a great leader in the passing of the Most Rev. Dr Joseph Marthoma Metropolitan (27 June 1931-18 October 2020). rough his rich experience, profound wisdom, sharp memory, brilliant foresight, mature counsel, relentless support and fatherly aection, Metropolitan was undoubtedly a towering leader of the Bible Society Movement in India. He led the BSI as the President of Kerala Auxiliary from 1996-2001 and later as the member of the BSI Executive Committee Member from 2013 onwards. 18 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020

Committee members were blessed by the visit of Metropolitan to the Bible House, Kottayam on 26th June 2020, a day before his 90th birthday. e pandemic did not deter him in personally sharing his birthday cake with each of the sta members present, which spoke volumes of his aection to the BSI. Metropolitan hailed from Palakkunnathu Metropolitan’s address at the BSI Central family which gave birth to ve Metropolitans Council in January 2019 was prophetic; and also a family which led the reformation “e Bible will open a new vision to our movement in Malankara (Kerala) Church ministry now as we have stepped into the of the St. omas tradition. During new year…. Great challenges are before us the funeral, the Government of Kerala and we must launch new initiatives.”His honoured Metropolitan with state honours perceptive opinions have always been marking the contributions he had given to helpful to BSI in arriving at proper decisions the society at large. Metropolitan always on important matters of policy. tried to live with the Biblical principle as expounded in Micah 6:8. We deeply mourn Metropolitan was always fascinated by the passing away of Dr Joseph Marthoma the Bible translation work done through Metropolitan and oer our condolences the BSI. As a Church historian who knew to the Church leader who lived with the intricacies of the nuances of language, conviction, courage and hope in Jesus Metropolitan would narrate the history Christ. and undercurrents of the history of Bible translation in India during his sermons. He advocated a Bible translation process that is contextually relevant and sensitive to the emerging context of gender and sexual minorities. Metropolitan was always excited to release and to generously promote many new BSI Scripture editions, including Common Language Bible and Concordance Bible during the annual Maramon Convention. He also was glad to render his voice for the new digital BSI Malayalam Audio Bible. BSI Kerala Auxiliary was fortunate to receive the leadership and guidance of Metropolitan on many fronts. Metropolitan inaugurated the 63rd Annual Meeting of the Auxiliary and inaugurated the Bible House Renovation Project 2020 on 23rd August 2019 at Kozhencherry in the presence of BSI General Secretary and many leaders of the Auxiliary. Kerala Auxiliary Sta and Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 19 EXCLUSIVE

THEME: MISSON BEYOND THE NORMAL Amid the challenging situations due to the Covid-19 Pandemic, Annual Planning Workshop APW 2020 was conducted Virtually at an all India level comprising of all the 16 Auxiliaries and Andaman Nicobar Associate Auxiliary. e main focus and emphasis of this APW were on the lines of the Philadelphia promise about Achieving mission sustainability. e discussions and planning activities were based on the full Bible life cycle comprising of Translation, Publishing, Distribution, Scripture engagement and Advocacy in the new normal.

20 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 A corrective to this understanding of mission can happen provided we engage in Biblical interpretation with utmost seriousness keeping in mind it is the God of the Bible and not the Bible itself that we need to focus on in our reading and interpretation of the Bible. e following two principles would be of help in such an attempt. a) Integrated Reading and b. Perspectival Reading Creating communities of resistance and hope is what the Great Commission text is about. e Church needs to re-read The APW 2020 began with the Key such crucial texts and thereby re-think her note Address by the General Secretary engagement in God’s mission in the light Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko. of the re-read texts. en the new reality dawns on us that the Church is called to be present in this world as an alternate THE GREAT COMMISSION TEXT community that pledges her loyalty to AND THE MISSION OF GOD IN God as opposed to the Roman Empire or THE NEW NORMAL its contemporary manifestations. It is the In the New Normal and beyond the New promotion and preservation of life that Normal what we are experiencing today, the Great Commission beckons all to be how we understand the Great Commission involved in. For this, we need to resist all Text and the Mission of God is of utmost evil manifestations that destroy life and importance. promote life in abundance. is is indeed the cardinal thrust of the Mission of God. e Great Commission Text. e text e whole world is God’s Body. It is the concludes the Gospel of Matthew, and is a creation of the world as God’s Body that summary of the whole Gospel by weaving texts like the Great Commission text should together its Christological (Mt.28:18), pave the way to and this is to be undertaken Ecclesiological (Mt.28:19-20a) and in poverty and powerlessness and not with Eschatological (Mt. 28:20b) threads into a arrogance and pride. It is this task that carefully craed composition. e basic has been entrusted to us. If our ministry thrust of Matthew is to build an alternate becomes a means towards the creation of “a community based on the teaching of Jesus new heaven and a new earth”, then we can and the focus is not on the “going out” or proudly say we have understood what Jesus “baptizing.” said: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and Interpreting the Great Commission Text make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and the Mission of God. Mission is no in the name of the Father and of the Son longer seen as the spontaneous and joyous and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them communication of the experience of the to obey everything that I have commanded risen Lord. Rather it is now seen as a `duty’ you. And remember, I am with you always, imposed on people. Mission ceases to be an to the end of the age.” act of service and becomes a selsh exercise of survival, expansion and power. Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 21 e senior management Team were e Auxiliary Secretaries participated present in the WCC Boardroom during with their team of Marketing, Accounts, the inaugural address and released new Stock and Administration colleagues. publications by BSI. e Marketing Director presented the overview of Global Scripture Distribution details for the year 2019, the BSI performance in the eld of Publishing & Marketing and the distribution performance of all the auxiliaries with respect to the targets for the year 2019-20 was presented. e need to plan the models of Distribution and Publishing in the new normal was emphasized. e need to bring new promotional strategies for branding BSI,

Mission is no longer seen as the spontaneous and joyous communication of the experience of the risen Lord. Rather it is now seen as a `duty’ imposed on people.

22 | Sowing Circle | Jul-Dec 2020 the auxiliaries. e Auxiliaries have considered achieving more than 50% of their respective targets despite the challenging situations due to Covid-19. A total of 1.37 million Bible distribution is planned for the year 2020- 21. 2.27 million Testaments are planned. We hope the distribution activities will improve in the next 1-2 months and will fundraising and sales were highlighted. e e-commerce sales details and its increased usage during the lockdown were informed and the auxiliaries were requested to make plans for online sales and fund raising to sustain their operations

bring necessary revenues for the sustenance. Rev. Mathew Skariah, e Auxiliary Secretary of Kerala Auxiliary presented “Towards Resilient Bible Publishing and Marketing in the new normal.” He briefed on the Pandemic and its impact on economic, social, psychological and spiritual life of the people in the world and also in India. He explained on how the eectiveness of Bible publishing and marketing depends on our ability to create and curate an audience and the need to have Customer data management. ‘Agile’ publishing strategy for mission, Print plan, Digital Plan issues were explained from the Auxiliary perspective as well as whole BSI and participants discussed the various issues related to the Publishing and Marketing. Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi, Director, Church during the Pandemic restrictions. Relations & Resource Mobilization e target for the year 2020-21 and 2021- Department presented “Building Firm 22 were nalized based on the inputs from relations with Church” and the initiatives and planning for the resource mobilization. Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 23 She emphasized on reinventing “Bible • Exchange programs to build “inter- Sunday-BSI Sunday” across the Churches auxiliaries’ relationship” through Auxiliary branches and Volunteers. She encouraged the Auxiliaries to plan the Bible Sunday in their respective regions • a week or more visit, learning and Branch wise, Area wise and Denomination adopting the strength from one another wise. She also highlighted the need for interpersonal relationship – with the Church, with the local congregation members, Individual donors within locals, with NRI (Diaspora), with Global Cohort (International friends). e need for making friends for the BSI cause was explained. e Auxiliaries were requested to put eorts on the promotion of BSI ministry through Mr. Caleb Martin, Associate Director e-news, Sowing Circle and in person. e (Media & Special Audience) expenses to income balancing needs to be Presented the initiatives of the department. taken care for sustaining the ministry. He elaborated on how the digital can e CRRMD encouraged the auxiliaries to be useful in promotional activities for focus on the: NEW APPROACH Distribution and Contribution. • Making use of the facilities provided e following are the highlights of the by our Leadership constitutionally – presentation; CRRMD sub-committee 1. Audio Bible recording and • Online donation. release. 2. Braille in Malayalam and Punjabi • Establishing more branches on church based 3. Updating BSI Website • best model - Aizawl auxiliary model - 4. MegaVoice Device and White Canes success story distribution for Visually challenged people

• Acknowledging one another’s strength 5. Becoming more Active with Facebook 6. Optimising YouTube and new Videos • Having healthy competitions in fund raising uploads 24 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 7. Marketing Cloud for more reach by connecting You Version Bible Downloads 8. BSI Donation Page for Indian Donors 9. Bloom Soware for Digital Audiobook For the rst time in BSI, a dedicated UBS Publisher’s Institute was conducted through a webinar series from 9 to 11 September 2020.

Dr. Kirimi Barine led a three-part series webinar each lasting for three hours, exploring how the Bible Society can integrate enterprise thinking in its eorts to achieve sustained missional value.

Mr. Arun SokNhep also took one session explaining on Audiences, Products, Prices, and distribution models. e Publisher’s Institute opened up the insights of the participants on the Publishing & Marketing aspects. eAuxiliary and CO departments were encouraged to come out with plan of action and the ministry model.

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 25 INTERNATIONAL

Two launches bring joy in Nigeria

Story by Benjamin Mordi, Bible Society of Nigeria In a year marked with numerous challenges, the recent dedication of two New Testament translations has brought joy to the Ogbia and Epie speakers of southern Nigeria. Covid-19 restrictions across the country have eased, with religious activities under way and schools open, so the Bible Society was able to organise two dedication services, although it did limit the number of attendees.

Transforming the lives of the Ogbia people Just ve years aer the translation project got underway, people from across Bayelsa State gathered on 22 September 2020 at the Dedicating the Epie New Testament Ogbia Brotherhood Hall to celebrate the e following day, on 23 September 2020, completion of the Ogbia New Testament. the Epie New Testament was dedicated at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Yenagoa. Marking the occasion, Rev Dr Peter Oduks, Speaking at the celebration, Senator the guest speaker, remarked that the Ogbia Douye Diri, the Governor of Bayelsa State, New Testament would bring the truth in commended the Bible Society of Nigeria for the Word of God to the people in their its leading role in Bible translation in the mother tongue. country. “By this singular action, the Bible Society of Nigeria is preserving Nigerian John Okolubo, a retired teacher, was one of native languages,” he declared, “especially those who joined in the celebration. “I love the minor ethnic groups that are fast going the Word of God,” he explained. “is Bible into extinction.” will transform the lives of the Ogbia people. Rev. Father Joseph Opelema Without it, it was like we lacked God’s presence. But with it, we have reached the e guest speaker, Bishop Patterson promised land.” Kikile, General Overseer of the Gloried Ambassadors for Christ Assembly Missionary, stated that meaningful life 26 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 INTERNATIONAL

Miss Abraham Montgomery said she was excited to have the New Testament in her language. “I’ve been praying and expecting this day,” she smiled proudly. “e people of other languages in our neighbouring states have the Bible in their mother tongue, and I am happy we now have ours. It is no longer a wish or a dream, but a reality!”

A moment of joy Both services of thanksgiving culminated in a special moment as the newly translated Ogbia and Epie translations were read aloud, with the gathered crowds reacting with joy.

is found only in the Lord Jesus Christ.. e Bible Society of Nigeria previously Bishop Kikile explained that, “reading the set the ambitious target of completing the Bible in one’s mother tongue gives a better full Bibles in Ogbia and Epie in under 12 understanding and has more impact than years, though it is possible that both will reading it in a foreign language.” be completed before this point. Doing so would mark a record for the Bible Society Rev. Father Joseph Opelema, the Vicar of Nigeria. Its two most recent translations, General of the Catholic Diocese of Kalabari and Okrika—both dedicated in Bombadi was hugely excited by the launch 2018—took over 40 years to be completed. of the Epie New Testament and reiterated the importance of having access to heart Please pray for the continued translation language Scripture. “All we are doing as work on both the Ogbia and Epie translations Christians is centred on the Word of God,” in Nigeria and for the ongoing impact of he stated. “It will bring people closer to the New Testament on these communities God because they will be able to read and following the recent dedications. understand it. When we read the English Bible, it looks foreign, but with this Epie Source: United Bible Societies Bible, the people will see it as their own.”

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 27 NEWS & EVENTS youth online. Auxiliary Secretary shared a brief message, starting with Mary Jones’ story and went on to speak on the BSI logo, Sower of the Seed, which inspired the Auxiliary to start a Mary Jones Kitchen Garden and Orchard. is horticultural venture gave on-hands experience and practical insights, What we sowed that we reaped, there is a time to sow, and that is the young age (Ecl.3:9). In the Right time we shall reap the harvest. By the Spirit we shall reap Eternal Life...Zindagi Unlimited ! rough Zoom and FB online, about 150 could join us in the Youth meet and were richly blessed. Number of viewers continues to increase! You are welcome to visit FB page http://.com/ biblesocietyondiaallahabad. ANDAMAN & NICOBAR ISLAND ASSOCIATE AUXILIARY

In God’s time the Andaman and Nicobar Islands - Sale Depot of Andaman has been upgraded to the Associate Auxiliary status on 1st July 2020. It shows the great passion and the commitment of General Secretary and Central leadership. God had answered the prayers of the Pastors, Missionaries, and ALLAHABAD AUXILIARY the Bible Lovers of these Islands to have a full-edge Auxiliary O ce here. And it was Since past 4 years, on 2nd October we have Mr. Shaji’s constant hard work that helped been organizing ‘Youth Meet’ for Allahabad us to have this blessed O ce here in the youth. is is one of its kind and only BSI islands. takes eort to bring youth together of all the Church Denominations. We are now functioning with the supportive guidance of the Associate Auxiliary is year, we were in dilemma due to Covid-19, the ‘Youth For Christ’ from New Delhi team stepped in to help us. ey have been the key facilitators twice in the past. We went ahead and by God’s Grace the programme, the 5th Youth Meet went o very well on 2nd October. e theme was “Zindagi Unlimited” e “Youth For Christ” team led in singing and worship and also presented skits and engaged the

28 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 Braille Bible “It was my dream and constant prayer to read God’s word and indeed my dream is fullled through BSI when I received a Braille Bible from them. Am so excited to have it and now I can read it every day- says Yamini a visually impaired. Praise and thanks be to our God and for the ministry of the Bible Society of India.” Says Yamini. She got a gi of a White Walking Stick too. Committee. e members are very strong in their cooperation to the mission and ANDHRA PRADESH AUXILIARY vision of the Bible Society of India. We thank God for their support. Praise be to Report on the Scripture Engagement our Almighty God. Programme e Scripture Engagement Program was e associate auxiliary committee members conducted at the CSI Christ Church, Eluru, are as given below. Andhra Pradesh on 30th September 2020 focusing on the widows under the CRRMD Rt. Rev. Christopher -Paul President Project 78183 -“Empowering Widows and Rev. T. Selvaraj Vice -President Suering Women of India”. Since the day Rev. J. M. Raja Lawrance-Treasurer Rev. Lot Abraham-Member Rev. Anand Mridha-Member Rev. Biju Mathew-Member Rev. Abraham omas-Member Rev. Anil Topno-Member Rev. Say Saytha-Member Pastor B.S. Paul-Member Herewith we seek your constant prayer for BSI Ministry here in these Islands.

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 29 DIMAPUR AUXILIARY LOVE FOR GOD’S WORD MINISTRY Mrs. Ramwiliu Newmai wife of Lt. Charang Newmai who hails from Tapon Village, Senapati District, is now 99 years old. e ministry of the Bible Society of

happened to be the International Translation Day, the participants were beneted by knowing the invaluable contribution of the people who have translated the Scripture in our mother language. ere were 30 women, representing six dierent Churches. Due to Covid19 pandemic, the BSI had also given to these poor women groceries and Holy Bibles for their own. e local Church and BSI Branch leaders had joined this important program and distributed groceries and Scriptures to the women present. While responding, a few women had given their testimonies. Mrs. Deena said that the Word of God has strengthened her and her family when they were down with nancial and health crisis especially when she lost her husband. Mrs. Ramanamma quoted from Psalms 107:9 “For He satises the thirsty and the hungry he lls with good things” and said this verse has been true in her life at many di cult times particularly at the hard reality of the death of her husband and son. Mrs. Ruth has joyously said that this project has brought a smile on their faces and hope for their future challenges. 30 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 India was introduced to her by her son Lt. N. K. Sying, who was the Translator of Liangmai Naga Bible. She came to know the importance of translation, publishing and distribution of God’s Word. So she started donating a small amount in 1991 and 1992. However, she said that she could not continue due to tribal conicts in her area.

Aer some years she started saving a little In our morning devotion sometimes we amount of money for the Bible cause. call some key Pastors to take the devotion Having saved a few thousand rupees, she in order to have good relations with the bought a calf and reared it. A few months Churches and we also have found time to back she sold the cow for Rs.18,000/- She go to their Churches for the BSI Ministry. gave the whole amount to BSI, Dimapur On 27th September 2020 we had called Auxiliary for Bible cause through her Rev. Julious Khristie and his wife Rev. daughter in law on 22nd October, 2020. Anita Khristie , an Executive member of And she said “accept this as equivalent to BSI in Central O ce. ey encouraged the ‘widow’s mite’”. e ministry of BSI is us tremendously and are ready to help so dear to her. May God grant her good us for fundraising and distribution of the health and long life Scriptures. GUJARAT AUXILIARY JABALPUR AUXILIARY We thank God for our Branches and A TRIBUTE TO THE BIBLE SOCIETY OF INDIA Mary Jones Women’s Fellowship and all “e ways of the Lord are dierent than our beloved Pastors who are helping us ours” It was at the time of lock down the to promote the BSI Ministry. On 14th Lord inspired the Zoe Life Production to do September 2020 we had a Zonal Branch something unique for the ministry of Bible Seminar online meeting for Baroda, Anand Society. ey made a visit to the O ce of and Surat. From Anand District around Bible Society and put forth their thoughts 53 people had joined the meeting for the of bringing up a short lm on the activity promotion of BSI and for Fundraising. of the Bible Society. We also had arranged a Zonal Seminar for e Zoe Life Production team and the North Gujarat Sabarkantha District. All Secretary along with Sta had two sittings. key Pastors, Branch members and MJWF e Sta shared their experience in the eld Women joined the meeting. Rt. Rev. Bishop and the story of Mary Jones. Based on this Malaviya and Rev. Julious Khristie and the Zoe team enacted and made the Tele Rev. Daud Suvera were the main speakers Film on the ministry of the Bible Society. and they encouraged the Branch and local e Auxiliary Secretary, informed the Pastors and women for the BSI Ministry committee members in the Auxiliary and how to raise funds. We have applied a Committee Meeting held on 14.09.2020 new approach that everyone should give at that Mr. Swapnil Pawar has made a Tele least Rs.10/ every single day (Bible A Day) Film on the Ministry of the Bible Society of then we can contribute a big amount in a India, Jabalpur Auxiliary and would like to year. dedicate this Tele Film to us. Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 31 KERALA AUXILIARY WEBINAR ON BIBLE TRANSLATION As part of the International Translation day celebrations on 30th September, Kerala Auxiliary conducted a Webinar on Bible Translation, in a betting manner, utilizing UBS media resources. e programme was well attended by the o cials representing various Regions and Branches of the Auxiliary. e Program started with the Opening Prayer by Mr. K Franklin, Malappuram Region Coordinator. Rev. e Most Rev. Dr. P. C. Singh stated that Mathew Skariah, Auxiliary Secretary, the Film be rst shown to the Committee in his welcome address explained the Members for any corrections and then be purpose of the meeting and welcomed sent to Central O ce for its approval. Rev. all those who joined the webinar. Mrs. Bruce angadurai, member Auxiliary Starla Luke, Former BSI Vice President, Committee was given the task to go through with her Introductory Address set the the Tele Film and give his suggestions. tone of the meeting. e Main Talk was en the same was forwarded to the delivered by Rev. Dr. Jonadob Nathaniel, Central O ce, under kind attention of Dr. Senior Director Translations Department, Hrangthan Chhungi, Director (CRRMD) BSI. In his talk, with the help of a Power and Mr. Caleb Martin Hilton, Associate Point Presentation, Dr Nathaniel explained Director, Media & SA for their views. the scope, procedures and challenges in terms of the new translations. Mr. George On receiving the approval from Central Mathew, Kottayam Branch Secretary, gave O ce the Tele Film was released on 11th a gist of the presentation in Malayalam. November 2020 in the presence of Zoe Life Chev Dr Koshy M George, Central Council Production Team and Jabalpur Auxiliary Member, also spoke on the occasion and Sta. e Tele Film was released with Prayer he suggested few activities that can be by Rev. Daniel Nath, Auxiliary Secretary, taken up by the Bible Society along with BSI, Jabalpur Auxiliary. Aer releasing the Bible Translation. Intercessory Prayer the Film on YouTube we are getting phone and concluding prayer were led by Mr. calls of appreciation and also many people Santhosh Kumar, Trivandrum South are coming forward for helping the Bible Region Coordinator and Mr. Jacob John Society through their donations. Alumkal, Auxiliary Committee Member, respectively. We are grateful to Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi, Director (CR&RMD) & Mr. Caleb Martin 6th Y Mathew Memorial Elocution Hilton, Associate Director, Media & SA Competition “New Heart and Christian for their cooperation. We would also Witness of Youth in COVID times”- that like to extend our gratitude to Zoe Life was the topic given to the youth in this Production for the Tribute and for all their year’s Y Mathew Memorial Elocution hard work. We also extend our gratitude Competition, based on the verse Ezekiel to the Most Rev. Dr. P. C. Singh and the 36:26. is is one of the major Scripture Auxiliary Committee members for their Engagement program of the Auxiliary encouragement and guidance. being conducted every year by the Kerala 32 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 Auxiliary since 2015, and this year it was to the children. ey were very delighted conducted on Sunday, 11th October, at our visit. We had a wonderful time 2020 on a virtual platform. As the virtual of singing and table fellowship and they platform enabled the participation of promised that they will read the Bible and contestants from even distant places, the will pray every day. BSI is grateful to Rev. response this year was excellent, including Sunil B. Zachariah and family and to Mr. registration from outside the country. Chacko Mathew, BSI Branch Secretary, Pathanapuram for organizing and Rev. Dr. Kuruvilla George (Former arranging the program. Principal, Kerala United eological Seminary), Chev. Dr. Koshy M George Prayer empowerment, ‘the New Normal’- (Former Deputy Director, ISRO and Niranam Branch BSI Niranam branch BSI Central Council Member) and Mrs. initiated a prayer empowerment program Sakhi Mary Fenn (President, Women’s daily in the evenings from 9:00 pm to 9:30 Fellowship, CSI Diocese of Cochin) were pm bringing together the families in the the expert Judges for the competition. e branch on WhatsApp. is program has event was blessed by the gracious presence given the much-needed hope and strength of Rt. Rev. B. N. Fenn, Bishop, CSI Diocese to the many families who were struggling of Cochin. e rst, second and third under the impact of the pandemic. Daily prizes for the competitions were bagged morning prayer and devotion for 15 minutes by Emma Vijoy, Soju C Jose and Hanna has also been started on Zoom platform and Sajith John respectively. Mr. John Minu many families, even from other countries Mathew, iruvankulam Branch Secretary and states, are participating with much and the son of Late Mr. Y. Mathew, who enthusiasm. Chain Prayer in the context of has instituted an endowment for the natural calamities, monthly meetings are competition, was the convenor for the also being conducted virtually. ey testify event. Cash prizes, Bibles and Certicates that it provides them a new avenue to share were presented to the winners and to the the time of spiritual fellowship with others. participants. A day with the dierently- Bible Quiz and Music competition were abled children Asha Bhavan - Mar oma also conducted online. Care Centre is an institution for physically challenged children managed by the Mar e branch o ce bearers regularly contact oma Church of Pathanapuram Centre. sick and elderly people under the branch Asha Bhavan was established with an insight area over the phone and pray with them. of integral growth and development of is is a ministry that brings comfort dierently-abled children from poor socio- and healing to many in distress. Financial economic backgrounds by providing free support was also extended to the needy in accommodation, food, education, spiritual the area during the pandemic. An amount enrichment and medical care irrespective of Rs.25,000/- was raised from the branch of religion, caste and creed. It provides members to buy a television for a needy physiotherapy and speech therapy and student to help attend online classes. vocational training for computer, fashion Outreach during pandemic - Elamkulam designing, paper bag making etc. for the Branch. BSI Elamkulam Branch members betterment of dierently abled individuals. conducted an outreach program observing Auxiliary Secretary and Mr. George Philip, Covid-19 protocols in Edavanakad, a Marketing O cer, along with BSI branch coastal hamlet in the district inhabited O cials visited the centre and spent time by sherfolk and other groups from poor with them and gied Malayalam Bibles economic background. ey shared the

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 33 ministry of Bible Society to the residents Audio Bible Distribution - Trivandrum and distributed a special pamphlet Region Bhasuramki is a 52-year-old lady that provided Biblical hope during the from Kollam District in Kerala, born and pandemic. e branch members were very brought up in a traditional Hindu family. happy that they could share the Word of She is blind by birth and was educated in a God, to the distress-stricken people. e blind school managed by the CSI Mission, in branch members had raised Rs.31,000/- Varkala. She came to the saving knowledge and they distributed an amount of Rs. of Jesus Christ during her school education. 1,000/- each to 31 deserving families. BSI She had a Braille Bible which had become Ernakulam City Coordinator Dr. P. C. unusable owing to extended usage. It omas, Mrs. Mary omas, Associate was with tears rolling down her eyes that Coordinator, Mr. David John, Mr. P. C. she received BSI Audio Bible recently as omas (Member) and Mr. Elson Paul(BSI our gi, during our Trivandrum Region Kerala Auxiliary) provided the leadership. Audio Bible Distribution Programme. Bhasuramki was one among the 16 blind “BSI Audio Bible – My Close Companion” people who received Audio Bibles in the “e Malayalam Audio Bible which was programme. given to me as a gi by the Kerala Auxiliary early this year, is now my constant NORTHWEST INDIA AUXILIARY companion. It gives me the much-needed comfort during this pandemic lock down IN SEARCH OF BIBLE - AND FOUND and it boosts my energy spiritually”, says GOD’S LOVE Satheesh Sathyan. Satheesh, son of Generally, Bookshops at any place specially legendary Malayalam Film Star, Late Shri at respective Auxiliary are meant to sell the Sathyan, is visually impaired and he now Bibles in various language and versions, stays at Ernakulam. Kerala Auxiliary is glad New Testaments, Tracts, and booklets. But to hear his testimony that during the lock as seen & experienced in BSI NWIA, this down period, he could complete listening to is not only a place just to sell the Bibles & the entire Audio Bible three times and now Books to the customers but has also become he has started his fourth round of listening. a heart & life changing place for people who He is immensely thankful to the Kerala visit BSI, NWIA Bookshop. Auxiliary for giving him such a precious gi as he had no opportunity to read or listen to the whole Bible earlier because of his disabilities. Now the Audio Bible has given him that marvelous opportunity and he is making full use of that. Satheesh is a close friend of Malayalam Playback Singer, Padma Vibhushan Dr K J Yesudas. When Yesudas celebrated his Eightieth Birthday in January this year, Satheesh chose to present “Sathya Vedapusthakam” (BSI Malayalam version of the Bible), to Yesudas as the Birthday In the midst of all restrictions and Gi. Satheesh rightly considers Bible more di culties when the people in this world precious than any other gi of gold or silver. are scared and nding ways to protect their families and staying home; a lady with her 34 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 husband walked in our Bookshop in the evening of 20th August 2020. It was her hunger & thirst for the Word of God that made her step-in the Bible House. Initially, we observed that they were looking around the showroom for Bibles. Rev. Gershombhai, Auxiliary Secretary who is always ready to attend and give priority to customers, attended this couple. To our surprise we found Mrs. Yashpal Kaur was looking for a full Bible for last 3 years. ey told how they googled Bible House, 10, Parliament Street & aer much di culty somehow they reached the destination that is Bible House, 10 Parliament Street. Mrs. Kaur told us that she had been reading the New Testament for last 3 years and how she encountered with Christ and wanted to buy a full Bible, so that she can understand more about God. In the midst of conversation we found that it was Mrs. Kaur’s birthday and when her husband oered a birthday gi she requested him to gi her a Bible. DISTRIBUTION OF DRY RATION KIT Based on our proposal, her husband e Bible Society of India, North West purchased 27 MTI to gi it to Mrs. Kaur on India Auxiliary is grateful to God, our her birthday. She grabbed the Bible in her General Secretary Rev. Dr. M. Mani hands, embraced it and uttered with joy, Chacko and Director (CRRM) for giving “ I found a Bible aer 3 years. My longing us an opportunity to engage with poor is satised by the Bible Society of India, women and children by helping them with NWIA. My search for Bible has come to an dry ration kit and Bible. end aer visiting the Bible House”. Under the guidance of Rev. Shirley Lall, Our Auxiliary Secretary Rev. Gershombhai Auxiliary Secretary in-Charge, we went to gathered all the BSI sta in Book room Ghaziabad on 13th July 2020. In partnership and as a family, we wished her by singing with Assembly of God Church, Sector – 11, Birthday song, oered prayers and gied Pratap Vihar, Vijay Nagar, Ghaziabad we a Life Course (Hindi). Aer leaving BSI, were able to distribute 50 dry ration kit and Mrs. Kaur called Rev. Gershombhai to Bible to most vulnerable women who have thank him and shared that it was the best lost their daily labour jobs. In partnership birthday she has ever celebrated in her life. with Central Methodist Church in India, GT She further mentioned that she and her Road, Ghaziabad were able to distribute 25 husband are amazed to see and experience dry ration kit to poor women and children such a warm welcome, care & hospitality to help them in critical situation.All these of the Bible Society members. Also, she 75 women & children are thankful to the wishes to celebrate her next birthday with Bible Society of India for standing with BSI, NWIA family. them in this di cult time. Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 35 Rev. Gershombhai Khristi, Auxiliary her family in this extra ordinary situation Secretary (Designate) and Rev. Jagdish in Ghaziabad, UP. Under Scripture Singh, Marketing Assistant conducted this Engagement Project with poor children in programme. Mr. Melvin Dcruz, Volunteer India and Partnership with Assembly of was also present. God Church in Ghaziabad. We were able to provide dry Ration Kit to Sunny and his TESTIMONY family Sunny is a 12 years boy. When he North West India Auxiliary is grateful to received his personal Children Bible along CRRM Director, for giving us an opportunity with dry Ration Kit he was so happy and to help poor children and widow and thanked God and the Bible Society. suering women in Northern part of India. Under the Scripture engagement with poor ODISHA AUXILIARY children of India Project, North West India Auxiliary was able to help most vulnerable CELEBRATING THE DALIT child name Master Sunny. His father had LIBERATION DAY died, his mother is a widow. Master Sunny We have celebrated the Dalit Liberation has two brothers. Sunny’s mother was a Day in our Auxiliary on 6th November, maid servant and was working in couple of houses to earn daily bread for 4 people. Sunny goes to AG Church regularly for the worship service. COVID 19 has such a huge impact especially on domestic daily wage labourers. Sunny’s mother lost her daily wage job. She is not able to manage 36 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 2020 during our Morning Devotion time Rev. Brajendra Kumar Kauri, Auxiliary Secretary led the programme with brief reection from John 4 : 5 - 29, also we have spend some times in prayer followed by the order of Service. RANCHI AUXILIARY Kharia NT for the Kharia speaking people of Chotanagpur We are excited to share about the nal Kharia NT translation workshop for Kharia Language that was held in Bible House, Ranchi, from 11th to 12th March 2020. is was a historical moment when

have heard that People of and Bihar love the Bible Society. Once again, this saying was proved true by the physical presence of the Committee Members in for the rst time Kharia believers would the Committee meeting of the Ranchi receive the NT in their own mother tongue. Auxiliary held on 12th October 2020. On 12th March 2020, Rt. Rev Yakub Soreng the former Bishop of Madhya Diocese and “We can come any time whenever Bible his team, in spite of their busy schedule, Society needs us, we are here even in the have successfully completed all of the Books midst of Covid 19 pandemic,” said our of the New Testament along with Psalms & members who came all the way from Proverbs and handed over the manuscript Chaibasa about 180 Km from Ranchi and to the Auxiliary Secretary. We would also West Singhbhum. Our President respected like to thank our Asst Director Rev. Dr. N. Rt. Rev. Johan Dang presided over the Subramani and Rev. Nag for their valuable meeting and was astonished to see 95% suggestions, guidance, and hard work for attendance of our Members. Once again, we the Kharia NT translation. e Committee thank God for all of our dedicated Donors, also decided to take up the OT Translation Partners, and Committee members for project in the near future. Glory to God! their Sacricial love for the Bible Cause. Auxiliary Committee Meeting during May our Almighty God continue to bless the time of Pandemic. I am sure that you them.

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 37 SHILLONG AUXILIARY TESTIMONY We had visited Mr. Everwell Nongkhlaw I WAS BLIND, BUT NOW I SEE and met him. He was born blind and now It is a very touching visit to the home of is 50 years. He is a good singer and received Ms. Lahun Nongsiej, a visually impaired many awards as a Soloist. He is a Church girl of a very poor family. She lives with an hymn leader in the Church of 500 members. ailing old mother, sister, and sister’s son in When he sings, he plays a guitar by himself. a shed of 4 feet by 6 feet. Her sister is a day He has produced a CD Album too. labourer and the only one who can earn. But this girl seems to be happy and she When we gave him a white cane, Braille gathers other friends of the same condition Bible, and Audio Bible, he expressed his and has worship service every Sunday deep gratitude towards the Bible Society through WhatsApp. We gave her a white and he prayed earnestly asking God to bless cane, Khasi Braille Bible, and Khasi Audio all those who are in the ministry of the Bible. A day later she called me and said, Bible Society. For the last 50 years, he just “I am so grateful to Bible Society for giving listened to the Bible when his relatives read me these gadgets. Now, I can read and listen or when it is read out in the Church. He to the Word of God by myself”. said “Now, I can listen and read the whole Bible by myself. My deep gratitude to God who asked people to prepare the Word of God for underprivileged people like us.”

DONATION BOX e Haong Branch in North Cachar, Assam resolved that all the churches should keep a “Donation Box” for the ministry of the BSI. Every Sunday they will place at the entrance of the Church so that every Christian can donate.

38 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 TAMIL NADU AUXILIARY TESTIMONY

I am Ms. Angela Rajam residing in Chennai. It gives me great Joy to share with you the I am from a Roman Catholic family but I did great things that the Lord has done in my not have the habit of reading the Holy Bible. life. My name is Shanthi a widow with two sons who are married and staying I was touched by the Bible verses sent separately. Every month I used to visit their through the Whatsapp group of BSI and home and stay with them and during my felt that these Bible verses were directly stay I found that both my daughter-in-laws speaking to me and from that day onward and sons have no peace within themselves. I had the desire to read the Bible verses is brought some sadness within me. One regularly which gave me peace, joy, and day as I was sitting outside my home few comfort. I contacted the Bible Society of people were distributing tracts. As I glanced India o ce in Chennai and bought a Bible the title of the tract it was “How to win over for myself and started reading the Word of worry” and the verse mentioned in the tract God. e Word of God was truly sweeter was “Cast all your burden on Him (Jesus) than honey as it is written in Psalms 19:10. for he careth for you” is verse made me As I started to meditate and read the Word realise that there is a person who cares for of God, there was a great transformation us that is Jesus Christ which gave me great in my family and personal life. e condence and hope .I did not want to be a problems and di culties I am facing have burden to my children so I started a small disappeared slowly. e Lord has blessed vegetable shop which started to ourish me with a good job. e joy I received from aer four months time. With God’s help I the Word of God was so comforting and I was also able to employ another person to had a burden and desire that everyone in help me. I want to thank the Bible Society this nation should receive the same Word of of India for this tract “How to win over God. From then on, I am regularly praying Worry” which helped me to overcome my and supporting the ministry of the BSI by sadness and brought a great change in my contributing Rs.2,000/- per month. I give life. all glory to the Lord Almighty and thankful to the BSI for guiding me to the truth. TELANGANA AUXILIARY Lockdown and COVID-19 pandemic has instilled fear in many but at Telangana Auxiliary, we took it as a challenge and an opportunity to serve and reach more people with Scriptures.

Ju l - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 39 Lockdown and COVID-19 pandemic has instilled fear in many but at Telangana Auxiliary, we took it as a challenge and an opportunity to serve and reach more people with Scriptures. New Branches: On 11th July 2020, with the help of the local gold-edge Bible my heart longs for it but congregations and Pastors, we inaugurated I cannot aord to buy it, and today from the BSI Shadhnagar Branch in Shadhnagar. some distant place you came and gied e local Pastors actively participated in me the same freely.” In the same Church the program and assured their full support to the Bible cause and promised to hold a Bible Exhibition cum Sale soon. SCRIPTURE ENGAGEMENT PROGRAMME Bible to the Border/Margins is our Auxiliary initiative to identify and reach out to the rural poor villages and give Bibles. On 18th and 19th July, we visited Chinthalonipali village in Amrabad and conducted a Scripture engagement program. It’s a small village with 60 families of daily wage earners who work in the nearby elds. We used the Bible which was removed as a ‘damaged’ Bible with ignorable damage premises, for the Christian poor children, and stocked for years. We used the same we conducted a program where we gied for this program. school bags with 2 notebooks, 1 colour pencil box, drawing sheets, and a biscuit Now all the 60 families in the village have packet for 20 children. In this time of crisis a Bible in their home. We got some very also, the congregation raised Rs. 2070/- as moving and heart touching testimonies, an oering for the Bible cause. One elderly person Lalaiah said, “is is the best gi I have ever received in my VIRTUAL YOUTH TALK life, every time when I see the large print Telangana Auxiliary conducted a series of Seven Talks for youth under the banner ‘ 40 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 immediately when the unlocking process had begun. We recently started the concrete work with the prayers and blessings of Auxiliary President Dr. Sanjay A Paul. We thank the General Secretary Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko and Dr. Chhungi Director, CR&RMD, and all the directors at the Central o ce for their constant support BSI WORDIES’ on the eme: You Are and prayers. Unique – Explore , reecting on Psalms 139:14. We invited people who excelled in their professional lives like doctors, IAS and IPS o cers to share their testimonies and challenged the youth. We also conducted We need each other. virtual women meetings and branch o cers’ meetings. We need to trust, rely BIBLE HOUSE CONSTRUCTION e Bible House construction at and depend on one Secunderabad got a bit slowed down due to lockdown but we resumed the work another. God gave us each other to walk alongside, spur one another in love. we are to carry each other’s burdens, care for each other’s practical needs and rejoice with each other. Above all we need each other to get the WORD around.

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 41 for the entire Bible Societies across the CENTRAL OFFICE globe working in more than 240 countries INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY and territories to make the Bible available CELEBRATION to everyone. Bible Societies serve Churches Around the World and through the of all denominations and are actively decades, like-minded people shared in the involved in Bible Translation, Publishing, global struggle for gender equality. We in Distribution and Scripture Engagement. the Bible Society of India also observed the International Women’s Day on March 6th, 2020 in our respective o ces during our Morning Prayers as 8th March falls on Sunday, a non-working day for us. It was a celebration of the social, economic, cultural, political and spiritual achievements of women. It is all about unity, celebration, reection, advocacy and action too.

UBS DAY OF PRAYER United Bible Societies’ Day of Prayer was observed on May 7th, 2020 virtually by the Bible Society of India. It is a special day for Bible Societies across the world. It is 74TH INDEPENDENCE DAY CELEBRATION the anniversary of the day when in 1946, is year the 74th India Independence a group of Bible Societies, “moved by the Day Flag Hoisting ceremony was held with need of the World for the Word of God and limited sta while maintaining Covid19 by the deep Christian fellowship of those SOP. Our General Secretary, Rev. Dr. M. who work together for its spread”, agreed to Mani Chacko hoisted the National ag and form United Bible Societies. Bible Societies delivered the Independence Day Greetings. mark this anniversary through a Day of He had chosen one of the Christian Hymns Prayer. “Abide with Me”, that has been played as the concluding piece of the Beating As we are facing an immense challenge Retreat ceremony on January 29 every year of the Corona 19 virus, the UBS Day of at Vijay Chowk, since 1950 as part of the Prayer was observed virtually. We prayed Indian Republic Day Celebrations. At the 42 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 beginning of this year there was a huge our service to the Nation as Christians, based controversy whether the music and the on the Gospel of John Chapter 8:31-32. We tune would continue to be played at the concluded the programme with Fellowship Beating Retreat Ceremony. e song was Breakfast. All Glory to our Almighty Jesus chosen to talk about how comforting it is Christ for the meaningful ag hoisting to have our God who is always with us even programme amidst pandemic. in the critical situation such as Covid19 Pandemic outbreak. KARNATAKA AUXILIARY By God’s grace in spite of the Pandemic and the rainy weather, we were able to observe the 74th Indian Independence Day on the 15th of August 2020 at the Auxiliary Premises

JABALPUR AUXILIARY On the occasion of the 74th Independence day, the Bible Society of India Jabalpur Auxiliary organized a Sta Independence Day Program held on 15 August 2020, on the Balcony of Bible House, Mission Press Compound, Napier Town, Jabalpur. Mr. Tarun Singh chaired the Program. We started the program by singing the hymn ‘Pyara Hindustan Humara, Pyara Hindustan…’ en our Auxiliary Secretary Rev. Daniel Nath hoisted the ag followed by the National Anthem ‘Jana Gana Mana. Mr. Paul B. Lall prayed for the Nation, Indian Leaders, Political Leaders and for the Pandemic. Message and Benediction was delivered by Rev. Daniel Nath. with ag hoisting. e Chief Guest for the event was Mr. K. Murali, Congress President e message was very enriching and he from Shivajinagar and Vasanth Nagar areas. emphasized on our renewed dedication of I commenced the proceedings with prayer Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 43 and opening remarks giving a gist of the 2020 BIBLE SOCIETY OF INDIA work done by Mr. K. Murali, Congress BUDGET SESSION: President who was accompanied by two of In the history of the BSI, due to Covid19 his sub-ordinates and also had the privilege pandemic, for the rst time the BSI Budget to honour our guests with shawls and Session was held on virtual in 2020, during bouquets. Our Chief Guest hoisted the Flag October 21-23. ough the pandemic followed by the national anthem and a brief is causing us a lot of inconveniences in speech on Independence. Mr. Murali holds our BSI ministry and activities, yet we the Bible Society of India in great esteem do acknowledge all are not bad. As BSI is for its work and extended his support as also hit hard by the pandemic in terms of and when it is requested. distribution of the Bibles and contribution raised so far, yet this pandemic taught us to Flag hoisting was followed by a short service. progress in digital world. What remained Mrs. Vandana Maben opened with prayer as dream become a reality today. e followed by the reading of the Preamble by budget session organised by the Finance Mrs. Daphne Jean. Mr. Hermon read from Department and held every year on face Luke 04:16-19. Based on this reading, Mr. to face meeting was conducted online this George Ravikiran Samuel gave the message year. It is learnt that the Central O ce and touching upon the prevailing situation the Auxiliary O ces across India had a in relation to our fundamental rights and more meaningful time on virtual meeting. freedom. Mr. Ravi Kumar N, Mr. Vasanth Each and every presentation was précise Kumar, Mr. Desmond Snell, Mr. David Paul and accurate as we all had to focus on the and Mr. Y.S. Doddamani led in intercessory big screen, enabling each individual to be prayer, praying for various needs of our heard with our concerns. e three day nation. Aer intercessory prayer, I rendered sessions were greatly appreciated by all the words of gratitude to one and all. e sta who were involved in all the sessions. proceedings concluded with closing prayer Sustainability at its best was experienced by Mr. Desmond, followed by fellowship with no cost of time and travels. It was so tea prepared by Mrs. Rajeshwari. Mr. a rming that the BSI is experiencing the Desmond was the MC for the programme. digital transformation in a most signicant way.

44 | Sowing Circle | J Jul - Dec 2020 CELEBRATING THE REFORMATION DAY Reformation has an important place in the history of the Church. “A Mighty Fortress,” a musical banner of the Reformation down through the centuries, a musical foundation in which the Protestants have identied and taken refuge. Martin Luther based his hymn on Psalm 46, which a rms over and over again that God alone is our refuge, not our music, not the signs of our identity, not our denomination but God alone. Today, Reformation is commemorated in an age of ecumenical accountability, we receive the many fruits of the Reformation and we repent for our wrong doing and division. We engage in a spiritual and theological challenge: telling our story from a perspective of unity, not division. As we gather together, we remember the beginnings of faith: we give thanks to God who calls us in this time and place to be God’s people full of grace and truth. DALIT LIBERATION SUNDAY: e Bible Society of India, being a member e Bible Society of India celebrated the of the National Council of Churches in Reformation Day on November 2nd, 2020 India (NCCI) followed and observed across all our o ces in the nation. Dalit Liberation Sunday on 6th November Friday. We have adapted the Order of Worship in our Morning Devotion by setting aside the whole service for this important day. e pictures portrayed here are the stories of millions of Dalit women suering across India. e BSI is trying our best in dierent ways to be part of redeeming and transformative partner

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 45 manifestations despite it being rendered illegal is a blot on Indian social life and polity. Unfortunately Social institutions including churches and political parties practice caste either tacitly or sometimes even openly. is they do despite preaching equity both in terms of human existence and in terms of subscribing to a theology that condemns discrimination for the Dalit community in our Mission through Scripture Engagement activities. By taking the liberty to recite the forwarding letter of the General Secretary of the NCCI, Rev. Asir Ebenezer, I quote in length... “e Churches in India represented by the National Council of Churches in India (NCCI) and the Catholic Bishops Conference of India (CBCI) join together in this pandemic year 2020 to challenge caste and a rm the dignity of the dalit women. e observance of the Dalit Liberation Sunday this year on 8th November 2020 will focus on ‘Challenging Caste: A rming the and untouchability. Institutions, including Churches and Christian and ecumenical organisations, that practice caste owe a public apology to the dalit community for being a part of direct and indirect acts of omission and commission that continue to provide legitimacy and sanctity to the institution and practice of caste that violates human rights. e NCCI has for decades announced a zero-tolerance to caste discrimination in any form. Its a rmation that “No one can serve Christ and caste - practice of caste is sin and untouchability a crime’ is out there for over a decade to Dignity of Dalit Women’. Dalit Liberation hold itself accountable by all. Recently the Sunday is an annual joint observance. NCCI announced that people can write e Roman Catholic, Protestant and to [email protected] if they Orthodox Churches in India consider that come across any instance of caste based this deep-rooted hegemonic discriminative discrimination within the churches in oppression of people based on work and the fellowship of the NCCI. Furthermore, decent is by far the single largest structured women in dalit communities are the most oppressive system in the whole world. Its violated in caste conicts. Unfortunately, in prevalence, domination and perpetuation times of abuse within the community they in all walks of life have to be continually have nowhere to go lest they be abused challenged. Practice of caste in its many again. In recent times we have also seen the 46 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 conduct of state machinery in conniving who take and read these selections nd with casteist forces in perpetuation of caste- hope, comfort and peace during these privilege and male-privilege against the challenging and uncertain times. dalit communities. e annual observance of the Dalit Liberation Sunday is an KANNADA AUDIO BIBLE RECORDING occasion and an opportunity to introspect e new Kannada Audio Bible is recorded on the presence of this inhuman practice and soon to be released for the audience. of caste amidst us, weed it out, and renew Many who are eagerly waiting for the our commitment to the annihilation of Kannada audio Bible will be blessed hearing caste. It is our prayer that we as churches in God’s Word. India will be able to do this in our journey of faith, carrying the legacy of an agency of inuence, a rming the good news of shared heritage of abundant life for all, and more importantly and signicantly on the terms of the weak and vulnerable.” DALIT LIBERATION DAY We have celebrated the Dalit Liberation Day in our Auxiliary on 6th November, 2020 during our Morning Devotion time Rev. Brajendra Kumar Kauri, Auxiliary Secretary led the programme with brief reection from John 4 : 5 - 29, also we have spend some time in prayer followed by the Order of Service. MEDIA & SPECIAL AUDIENCE DEPARTMENT We have met with Auto drivers fellowship and distributed 500 Face masks freely

More Challenges are ahead as the entire World responds to the COVID 19 Pandemic. But we are committed to the Mission to make and we have given 5000 selections of Bible Available, Affordable and comforting words in dierent languages, these selections are kept in 45 Autos. Many Accessible Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 47 NEVER ALONE AND DOES COVID19 TEACH ANYTHING BSI has come up with two digital selections (Never Alone and Does Covid-19 teach anything to us?), which have been circulated widely through all the Auxiliaries and Social Media. eses selections are prepared by BSI to share the message of Hope and comport to people as we are going through these times of Pandemic.

CHURCH RELATIONS: BSI WITH e United Bible Societies (UBS) which is a body of 150 Bible Societies from 240 countries had adopted 8 important mandates to be fullled for the UBS family called Philadelphia

48 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 Promise during her 2016 General Assembly held in Philadelphia, USA. e UBS Assembly is held every Six years. e Philadelphia Promise, No.2, “Strengthening Church Relations” goes this way. And let me quote in full, “As Bible Societies we will address our Church relations in our local strategy planning and build new relationships with churches that are currently not fully involved in our work. As a fellowship we will continue to nurture our relationships with global Church bodies. We will establish training programmes for church relations.” To this promise, dierent regions in the world are working towards Strengthening Church Relations with Churches that are not fully involved in Bible Society movement. Now the Asian countries are coming up strongly with the Asia-Pacic-Catholic-A nity-Group (APCAG) since 2017. BSI is also one of the founding members of this A nity Group, sending representatives of one or two each year from the CRRMD and Auxiliaries for the meeting for the three consecutive years since 2017-2019. Due to Covid19 Pandemic outbreak, the meeting of Asia-Pacic-Catholic-A nity-Group 2020 was done through virtual Zoom Conference on July 28 and 29. is time, 9 BSI sta were able to participate under the leadership of our respected General Secretary, Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko. e meeting was very meaningful, and it was suggested that every Bible Society should do our best in strengthening this APCAG within the country/countries we are operating. e BSI General Secretary, had taken serious note of the APCAG mission, hence, a call to come together to take initiative to nd the ways and means of strengthening our relationship between the BSI and the Catholic Church in India.

Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 49 It is indeed a great privilege for the BSI to come together and to start our dialogue in a very personal and cordial level for the rst time on August 17, 2020. is initial talk helped us to understand how the Catholic Church in India and the Bible Society of India can work together on a local and national level. Aer holding several meetings including our last meeting with the Archbishop of Bangalore Diocese, Rev. Dr. Peter Machado with the BSI General Secretary, Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko on October 10, 2020 our conversation is progressing well to move forward strengthening our Church and working relationship in all possible areas for the glory of God.

FAREWELL TO OUR LONG TIME COLLEAGUES

On October 23rd, 2020 we bid farewell to our long time colleagues both husband and wife Mr. Joel Abraham, Director, Finance and Mrs. Lily Abraham, Manager, Administration. Mr. Joel Abraham served the Bible Society of India for a period of 44 years and Mrs. Lily Abraham served for 37 years respectively. Both were honoured with shawls, citation and cash gi from the management of the organisation by Rev. Premkumar Soans, Treasurer, BSI and Rev. Dr. M. Mani Chacko, General Secretary BSI. Mr. Tinku George, Associate Director, Finance felicitated Mr. Joel Abraham and Mr. David Maben, Assistant Director, Information Technology felicitated Mrs. Lily Abraham. e General Secretary felicitated both of them recalling their exemplary life at work and their faith and trust in the Lord. e BSI Choir sang two beautiful songs that was pre-recorded a day before to bid farewell to our long time BSI Choir leader Mr. Joel Abraham. Dr. Hrangthan Chhungi, Director, Church Relations & Resource Mobilisation too rendered a special song assuring of God’s protection for both. Mr. Gnana Samal, Senior Manager, Finance was the Master of the Ceremony. e entire farewell was witnessed by all our Auxiliaries through Zoom platform. 50 | Sowing Circle | Jul - Dec 2020 REMEMBERING WITH THANKSGIVING OUR DEAR ONES WHO HAVE GONE TO BE WITH THE LORD

Mr. T C Mathew, -Auxiliary committee member- BSI Kerala Auxiliary was called Home at the age of 76. 26th May 2020 Mr. Daniel Nayak, -former member of distribution and promotional committee and father-in-law of Mr. Prem Ratan- Odisha Auxiliary, called Home at the age of-73. 2nd June 2020 Mr. K. I. Issac, former Stock-in-Charge, BSI Kerala Auxiliary was called Home at the age of 74. June 11th, 2020 Mrs. Anna Varughese, w/o late Mr. omas T Varughese former Treasurer and member of IBSTA, of BSI was called Home at the age of 90. June 15th, 2020 Mr. K. V. Yohannan, father of most Rev. Dr .Mar Chrysostomos Metropolitan was called home at the age of 95. 2nd July 2020 Mr. Lt. Col. Vijay Mahida, current vice president of Gujarat Auxiliary was called home at the age of 58. July 7th, 2020 Rt. Rev. Reuben Senapati, former Bishop of Cuttack Diocese and President of Odisha Auxiliary from 2002-2004 was called home at the age of 84. 8th August, 2020 Mr. Larence Bikash Pradhan, colleagues of Odisha Auxiliary was called home at the age of 60 13th August 2020 Rev. H. S. Karunakara, former Karnataka Auxiliary Secretary called home at the age of 74. 31st August 2020

Miss. Shaila John Wesley, Member of Karnataka Auxiliary Committee between 2009-2018 Called Home at the age of 68. 14th September, 2020 Mr. Nathan Patra Nayak, former distribution promoter of BSI Odisha Auxiliary was called Home at the age of 65. 22nd September 2020

Mr. G. David Kumar, Former colleague of Central Oce was called Home at the age of 71. 4th October 2020. Mrs. Florence D. Costa, Ranchi Auxiliary Committee Member called Home at the age of 67. 6th October 2020.

Rev. Samson Peter, who served BSI from 1989-2007, also Auxiliary Secretary- Jabalpur called Home at the age of-75. 8th October 2020. Rev. Benjamin Rai, former translations advisor and translation consultant, Shillong Translations Centre called Home at the age of 80. 10th October 2020. e Most Rev. Dr. Joseph Mar oma Metropolitan, Former Kerala Auxiliary President (1996-2001), BSI Executive member till date called Home at the age of 90. 18th October 2020.

Mr. Prem Ratan, Assistant Manager (Accounts) of Odisha Auxiliary was called Home at the age of 55. 3rd November 2020. “He will wipe away every tear from their eyes, and death shall be no more, neither shall there be mourning, nor crying, nor pain anymore, for the former things have passed away.” Revelation 21:4 (ESV) Jul - Dec 2020 | Sowing Circle | 51 ONLINE DONATION- UPI ID’s

AIZAWL ALLAHABAD ANDHRA PRADESH BOMBAY AUXILIARY AUXILIARY AUXILIARY AUXILIARY

BSI JABALPUR KARNATAKA KERALA CENTRAL OFFICE AUXILIARY AUXILIARY AUXILIARY

NORTH WEST ODISHA TELANGANA INDIA AUXILIARY AUXILIARY

Website: https://www.bsind.org Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/bsicircle Email: [email protected] RSS URL: https://biblesocietyondia.wordpress.com Online Donation: https://donate.indian.bible